Peripheral Artery Disease

What is peripheral artery disease?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) occurs when fatty deposits, known as plaque, accumulate in the arteries that supply blood from the heart to the legs and feet. This buildup causes the arteries to narrow, limiting blood flow and resulting in symptoms such as pain, cramping, and trouble walking.

What causes PAD?

PAD is most commonly the result of atherosclerosis, which can occur as a result of family history (genetic risk), smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, being overweight. Being over the age of 50 also increases risk.

What are the symptoms?

Pain in the body’s extremities, especially within the calves, thighs or buttocks, that occurs after activity but improves with rest. This is also known as “claudication.”
Cramping such as muscle cramping in the legs or feet
Numbness or weakness within the legs or feet
Skin changes or skin texture changes on the legs or feet
Sores or wounds on the legs, toes or feet that are slow to heal
Temperature changes such as legs or feet that are cool to the touch

How is PAD diagnosed?

When PAD is suspected, there are several different tests that may be used to provide an accurate diagnosis of the condition. These include:

Ankle-brachial index (ABI)

A non-invasive test that compares the blood pressure within an artery in an ankle with blood pressure in the arm. If the ABI result is less than 0.9, there is PAD in the lower extremities.

Doppler ultrasound

This non-invasive test uses sound waves to measure blood flow and blockages in the blood vessels.

Angiogram

This x-ray-based test uses a catheter threaded through the bloodstream and into an artery to assess the buildup of plaque.

CT Angiography

Also an x-ray-based test, computed tomography angiography (also known as CTA) is used to evaluate blood flow and blockages within the arteries in the body’s extremities.

MR Angiography

A magnetic resonance imaging scan of the blood vessels that can evaluate blood flow and blockages within the arteries.

Treatment for PAD

At Pacific Vascular Access Care, we offer the following minimally invasive treatments for PAD:

Balloon Angioplasty

Imaging is used to guide a catheter into the narrowed artery within the extremity. A special balloon is inflated to open the artery and restore blood flow.

Stenting

A wire scaffold-like device is placed into the artery and opened to permanently keep the artery open and blood flowing.

Atherectomy

A special device is delivered to the clogged artery via a catheter and used to remove plaque from the artery walls.

How can we help you with peripheral artery disease?

At Pacific Vascular Access Care, we realize how peripheral artery disease (PAD) can affect your daily life and overall well-being. Our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized care and guidance every step of the way. Using advanced diagnostic tools and a variety of tailored treatment options, we focus on meeting your unique health needs with compassion and expertise.

Contact PVAC Today